Schinoussa is almost in the center of Small East Cyclades Islands. We meet her south of Naxos and northeastern of Iraklia. It is a small island with 9sq.km ground, ideal for quiet vacation.
The island is inhabited since prehistoric times. According to tradition, it was named after the bushy plant schino found all around the island. But there is another tradition according to which the island took its name from the Venetian archon Schinoza.
Schinoussa belongs to the eparchy of Naxos. It is connected with it in regular bases and the trip from Piraeus to Mersini, her protected port lasts 7-8 hours. The island’s port, Mersini, is considered one of the best harbourages of small ships in the whole world.
Schinoussa has two settlements. Chora and Messaria.
The settlement of Chora is built on a hill, in the inner part of the island, 1,2km from the port. In older times the island has suffered a lot of catastrophes from pirate invasions. So, its natives built the village of Panagia, as they else call Chora from the church of Panagia Akathi, on a hill, in order to have visibility towards the sea. Houses are built according to the traditional style of Cyclades islands.
The second settlement of the island, Messaria is the same graphic and enchanting. There, you can visit the church of Evagelistria. It is 3km from Chora. Its inhabitants work with agriculture, animal breeding, fishing and tourism. During the last years more and more travelers visit the island seeking for a quiet place with virgin beauties to spend their holidays in. Tourist foundations of Schinoussa satisfy the needs of all visitors and offer them modern comforts.
The natural beauties of Schinoussa make her distinguish from the rest of Cyclades islands. It has 15 beautiful beaches, with endless shores and crystal clear waters that beguile every visitor.
Touring around the island’s beaches can be a pleasant surprise. Leaving the port we meet the beach Mersini, Tsigoura, Livadi, Liolio, Psili Ammo, Almiro, etc.
Schinoussa is a small-unexplored paradise waiting for you promising a lot…